Xiaomi‘s latest offerings in the world of fitness wearables have sparked intrigue and debate among tech enthusiasts. The launch of the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 and the introduction of its cost-effective counterpart, the Smart Band 8 Active, has left potential buyers contemplating which one to opt for. Let’s delve into the distinctions and similarities between these two fitness trackers to help you make an informed decision.
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 made its debut in China in April 2023, followed by a European launch on September 27, 2023. However, instead of introducing a Pro version, Xiaomi released the Smart Band 8 Active, a more budget-friendly alternative to the standard Smart Band 8. Interestingly, the Smart Band 8 Active is essentially a rebranding of the Redmi Smart Band 2, which made its debut in the market earlier in the year.
How Does the Smart Band 8 Active Differ from the Smart Band 8?
Compared to the Smart Band 8, the Active version features a slightly smaller square-shaped display, providing a perfect alternative for those who prefer a more traditional watch-like appearance. The display is versatile, offering over 100 different watch faces for customization.
Despite the smaller screen, the Smart Band 8 Active is lighter, thanks to its 1.47-inch panel (compared to the 1.62-inch display of the Smart Band 8). However, it is important to note that the Active model’s display is less bright, which may affect visibility in bright outdoor conditions. Additionally, it lacks an automatic brightness sensor.
In terms of sports modes, the Smart Band 8 offers an impressive 150 different modes, while the Active version offers over 50 modes, making it a more suitable choice for individuals with varied fitness routines. On the plus side, the Active model boasts a slightly better battery life, with up to 14 days of general use, thanks to its smaller screen and a 210 mAh battery (about 20 mAh more than its counterpart). Charging is facilitated via magnetic pins.
What Remains the Same?
Both the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 and the Smart Band 8 Active share a core set of features. These include heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, automatic SpO2 monitoring, and 5 ATM water resistance (up to 50 meters). Both devices also offer tools for women’s health monitoring and stress level assessment.
Customization is another common feature in both wearables. Users can change watch faces, and the availability of a variety of strap styles and materials allows for personalization, regardless of the model chosen. Both devices support Bluetooth 5.1 BLE connectivity and are compatible with iOS 12 and Android 6.0 or higher. The Zepp Life app is used to control and configure both devices.
Which One to Buy?
Considering that the Xiaomi Smart Band 8 is available at approximately 39 euros in Spain and the Smart Band 8 Active is priced at 39.99 euros, it’s recommended to opt for the standard Smart Band 8. With the Smart Band 8, you’ll enjoy a brighter screen, a broader range of sports modes, and greater compatibility with an assortment of straps available in online stores. Keep in mind that the Smart Band 8 may be slightly heavier and have a shorter battery life than the Smart Band 8 Active, but the additional features and customization options make it the preferred choice for most users.